The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed that it has temporarily suspended the operations of its FA-50 fleet following the crash of one of its FA-50 fighter jets in Bukidnon.
As reported by RH Edniel Parrosa, PAF Spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo 'Bon' Castillo stated that the FA-50 fleet was temporarily grounded following the discovery of the crashed aircraft and the bodies of its pilots.
JUST IN: Operasyon ng FA-50 fleet, 'grounded' muna habang iniimbestigahan ang fighter jet crash sa Bukidnon — Philippine Air Force | RH52 @ednielparrosa, DZRH News pic.twitter.com/4yr8ErsC3i
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) March 5, 2025
Castillo further highlighted that an extensive investigation is being carried out into the FA-50’s crash, which took place during a tactical night operation in support of the 4th Infantry Division.
The force also assured assistance to the families of the personnel who were involved in the fatal crash.
Moreover, this is also said to be the first major incident involving the FA-50 fighter jets of the force.
In a previous announcement at Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday, Castillo revealed that one of the FA-50 fighter jets of the force went missing after losing its signal around midnight.
The force later confirmed that it had identified a 'general area' where the missing aircraft might be located.
AFP Eastern Mindanao Commander Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante reported that the fighter jet was completely destroyed.
